Teddy Bridgewater reclaims the top spot

The Jaguars nearly lost the top spot in the draft with a victory Sunday over the Texans. Jacksonville still has a lower opponent win percentage, which gives them the edge for the No. 1 pick. Yet, the win — the team’s second in three games — makes their decision far more interesting than it was a couple weeks ago.

The Jaguars are proving they can win games despite talent deficiencies throughout the roster. Thus, the team may be more likely to select the QB who is more ready to step in from day one and start instead of waiting to develop another top talent.

Oregon’s Marcus Mariota has the most upside of any QB in the 2014 NFL draft class. But, Mariota is not the most prepared to enter the NFL ranks. Louisville’s Teddy Bridgewater is the most refined signal caller.

Bridgewater should be able to step in from Day 1, take over the starting spot and lead the Jaguars to victories. Plus, Bridgewater is a Florida native, which could help Jaguars’ ticket sales.

Mariota may be a better fit for the Texans in this scenario. The Texans are a better fit schematically. Texans head coach Gary Kubiak prefers to get he QBs out on the edge with bootleg action. This cuts down the QB’s pass reads. The Texans are a run-first team already as they work to hide the deficiencies of a young QB, and continuing down that path would give Mariota time to grow into the job.

*Draft order was determined by current record and strength of schedule. The Cardinals, Titans, and Lions were adjusted to fill out official draft order per the current playoff picture.

How did Derek Carr become a Top 5 pick? Carr has made appearances in this mock over the past few weeks. His stock has moved up and down primarily based on which teams needed QBs and where they drafted.

Carr, meanwhile, has continued to play at an elite level for Fresno State. Carr’s 39 touchdown passes leads college football. His 3,943 passing yards are second. Carr is a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender and a talented NFL prospect.

The Vikings desperately need a QB. Carr is generally considered the next best behind Bridgewater and Mariota. Yet, he isn’t simply a consolation prize. Carr’s arm is as good as anyone, and he’s considered the most mature QB prospect in the class. The Vikings have the ability to win football games with improved QB play. Carr can be that upgrade.